"For 25 years, it has been my privilege to represent the city of San Francisco and the great state of California; to work to strengthen our vibrant middle class; to secure opportunity and equality."

"Our constitution is a ray of hope: H for harmony, O for Opportunity, P for people's participation and E for equality."

"A sarcastic person is a person who is not only witty but also wise."

"An eye for an eye only ends up making the whole world blind."

"Angry people are not always wise."

"The things that happen in your life are either your choices or opportunities and lessons the universe has put before you. Life on earth is like college and we're all just trying to pass the courses."